In this first look at Nissan’s 2011 Versa, we’re seeing a very different car from the high-roofed, gangly subcompact that has been dominating the B-segment sales charts all year. Which begs the question: should Nissan mess with success? With Kia’s Soul sneaking up on the Versa in year-to-date subcompact sales, will a sleeker sedan keep the Versa riding high, or will it lose out to boxier, more practical offerings?

12 Comments on “What’s Wrong With This Picture: Visions Of A New Versa Edition...”

I wouldn’t put too much faith in the sketch. Sure, all the surfaces and details will be on the real thing, but the proportions will likely be alot different (read: uglier). If the Versa remains a C-segment car at B-segment prices, I don’t think it will lose any appeal.

Nissan has a high-roof classical B-segment car in the new Micra/March which shares platforms with the Versa.

Honestly, the Versa has alway been a little awkward in dimensions for the sedan model, it would do Nissan good to have a design that is more sedan-like for the North American market and keep the Micra/March for European and Asian markets (or even bring it here if they can find a market).

This would have to be 2012 MY at the earliest. The ’11s are already out. If it’s as soft as the current model, I don’t care what the styling looks like. A sporty model with the Juke turbo engine could be cool though.

If the Versa becomes sleek and coupe-like and, as a result, dimensionally challenged, it’s sales will absolutely crater.

The Versa isn’t the top-selling subcompact because it’s stylish or sporty. I’d hazard it’s the top-selling compact because it isn’t stylish or sporty. It’s roomier than a many fullsize sedans (back to front), rides better than many midsizers and gets subcompact mileage. It’s the big-car experience that North Americans love, but in a small package.

I could see the point of a sportier Versa sibling, alongside the mainstream models. Hey, maybe a crossover-ish sporty offering; a kind of Impreza Outback-like vehicle, only with far more bizarre styling. I can see it now, but I can’t think of a name…